Delivering more than a meal: Woking celebrates Meals on Wheels Week
Next week (2 to 6 November), Woking Borough Council is joining organisations across the country to celebrate Meals on Wheels Week and the positive impact its community meal service has on helping people stay independent and connected.
The annual campaign, led by the National Association of Care Catering (NACC), highlights the important role meal delivery services play in helping people remain independent at home.
Operating 365 days a year, the council's community meals service provides nutritious, affordable meals to people who may struggle to shop for, prepare or cook food themselves.
Meals are available to suit a wide range of dietary, cultural and texture requirements, including vegetarian and vegan, halal, kosher, allergen-friendly, soft diet, fork-mashable and puréed options.
The positive impact of the service is reflected in the results of the council's latest customer survey. More than 80% of clients said they are better nourished and feel happier, while 75% reported feeling healthier. The survey also found that 71% feel less lonely, 79% feel more independent and 86% said the service helps them continue living at home.
Behind those statistics is a team committed to supporting residents every day. Earlier this year, the service was recognised as a finalist in the NACC Meals on Wheels Awards 2026, recognising the care, compassion and professionalism shown by staff.
A reassured family member, who wrote to the team in October, said:
My mum has been having community meals for a month now and it has made such a difference to her wellbeing. She loves the meals and having a hot meal regularly at lunchtime has made a big difference to her mood.
The team who deliver are lovely and having someone pop in at roughly the same time helps her regulate the day.
The team’s role extends far beyond delivering meals. In the first six months of 2026 alone, the service made 26 referrals and connections to additional support services, identified eight customers requiring urgent NHS intervention after being found unwell or following a fall and facilitated 16 Homesafe Plus referrals to help residents return home safely after a hospital stay.
Cllr Steve Greentree, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities, added:
Our community meals service is about far more than just providing a hot meal. Every delivery brings reassurance, companionship and an opportunity to check on someone’s wellbeing.
Our dedicated team helps residents maintain their independence, stay connected to their community and live safely in their own homes. I’d encourage anyone who would benefit from the service, or knows someone who would, to give it a try.”
As part of Meals on Wheels week, the council are offering new customers a free two-day trial, giving them the opportunity to experience the service before committing.
To sign up for a free trial, email community.meals@woking.gov.uk quoting ‘Meals on Wheels Week’.
To learn more about the service, visit: www.woking.gov.uk/communitymeals